Religion and Spirituality Books

This author writes heart to heart as she so generously describes and shares her process of gaining intimacy with God. This book is a good read and too valuable to miss. It was especially enchanting to me because I am in the same business!This book was written for everybody! For the bold seeker and for those who do not yet know they are on a spiritual quest.

"God, Is That You?" will rekindle the devine spark within you. Uncompromisingly fresh and profoundly spiritual, Katharine Giovanni presents a clear path to enlightened prayer.

Whether you are already in the daily practice of praying, or conversing with God, or want to begin, you will delight in this book. It is easy to read, easy to understand, and full of beautiful examples of real-life people putting this into practice. Once you read it, you will want to practice daily conversations with God yourself. For me, the best part was remembering to stop asking and talking during my prayer time and remembering to listen. I now hear God's voice more readily, even when I don't think I am listening. You will enjoy reading this book the first time and then want to keep it in sight because you'll want to read it over and over again.

Review: God, is that You? By Katharine C. Giovanni

An avid appreciator of the works of Gregg Braden (The Isaiah Effect: Decoding the Lost Science of Prayer and Prophecy portrays marvelous insight into the operations of this universe) and Sophy Burnham (The Path of Prayer: Reflections on Prayer and True Stories of How it Affects our Lives shows the depth of our need to connect with God), I found Katharine Giovanni's book, God, is that You?, splendidly down-to-earth.

The joy in reading different styles of writing lies in one's ability to glean meaningful and personally applicable concepts through slightly altered perspectives. Katharine's book reminds each of us that every individual remains important to our Creator. It grandly opens the door to connection by reminding the reader that any and all types of communication with God are appreciated. This presents an "everyday" approach to prayer where we can "talk" to God without fear and in so doing, we discover that indeed, we are not alone. Her own reflections and those of others in the text bring our emotions and a sense of humility into play. These feelings allow us to remove the barriers that we ourselves have created - ideas on when and how to pray - and the method of free-writing a conversation with God, I suspect, will warmly surprise anyone who undertakes this prayer quest.

Marc Gafni, the learned author of Soul Prints, suggests that "God loves a story....let us be the heroes of our own." In Ms. Giovanni's book, we are asked to renew our very personal connection to our loving God. As simplistic as this might sound, the results prove extraordinary. One might find the use of writing questions odd in light of the omniscience of God, but free will explains the freedoms given to man. In addition, writing questions to God allows us to focus our thoughts. Once the door to this magnificent experience of unity is open, you will have succeeded in making yourself available to new possibilities. What more generous love could exist than that of a "creator" who wants his creations to also have that power over their own lives.

- Becky Ruff

The author did a beautiful job of explaining how to communicate with the divine spark of God in each of us. I really enjoyed hearing her story and the stories of others guided and healed by that communion, as well as her rich, expressive insights into clearing the way to and actually having that conversation.

This work was beautifully conceived and written with refreshing clarity, honesty and humor. I was enriched by it, and I believe that it will go far in helping all of us enter this long-awaited Age of Soul.

This is one of the mose beautiful books I have read. I love the verses and teh paraghraph that puts them in modern day terms of just explains teh meaning they had for the ancient people of that culture. A must for any one.

This book provides a perfect way to give yourself a nice morning ritual or meditation. It provides a daily poem or song on a variety of female dieties, along with a short reflection on how it is applied to daily life. I like that Monaghan includes Goddesses from a variety of cultures from all over the world. Her love of the feminine spirit definitely shines through. Another special feature is that you can use the index in a variety of ways. It has listings sorted by diety, or by subject matter, also by country, that way, you can find what you need when you have a specific purpose in mind. Highly recommended.

I have gone almost a full year (the complete book) with this book providing me with comfort, inspiration, and food for thought each day. I have another book which claims to offer Goddess inspirations in the same day by day format, but it doesn't touch this one, which obviously comes from a learned, thoughtful, spiritual, experienced writer. I read quotes from each book each day, but I save this one for last, because it is by far the best. The quote from a folk song or classical work followed by an insightful elaboration on the theme is always just enough - not too long, not too short. Thank you, Ms. Monaghan, for enriching my life each day.

Now here is a goddess meditation book with some depth! The daily poems and songs from ancient texts are rich in beauty, pointedly as diverse as the goddess herself. They are a wonderful source for personal and communal ritual. What I love the most is Monaghan's own reflections. It is so rare to have a poet scholar with the emotional depth, wisdom and incisive mind that strips away illusion to find both the succulent fruit and the flesh stripped bone. Life is beautiful and hard. For me, a meditation book needs to touch where my life touches. This one does. I cheat. I prowl around this book, not being obedient to the prescribed day. February 26 is one of my favorites. "I have eaten from her drum./ I have drunk from her cymbal./ I have carried her sacred objects./ I have prayed in her secret chamber." ( Greek initiate prayer). Monaghan writes, " The silence of the centuries tells us as much as a written script might about the mystery of life and death. The goddess reigns over them both. She is both our speech and our silence." Many have written using Monaghan's works as their source. In this book we have the real voice. I recommend The Goddess Companion very highly.

Wait a minute I was shocked enough when I found out that not only was there a God but there is a Goddess as well. Now this book tells me there are MANY Goddesses. Where did these Goddesses come from? Are these like the Greek and Roman goddesses or did the God of the Bible take a wife and have children? In the words of sweathog Vinny Babarino, "I'm so confused!" I guess I should get this book and find, out but in the words of Ricky Ricardo, "Lucy, I can't afford it."

As a now "older woman", I surely appreciate this book. I found it inspiring, enlightening and empowering! I am so encouraged that I plan to invite some others to form a wise woman circle in order to celebrate our collective wisdom and share our varied and courageous stories. I am thankful for this book highly recommend it to you!

thoughtful and provoking -- an academic description that gets a little detailed for the casual reader. Still, highly recommend to those who are studying Dr. Bolen's messages re. spiritual quests and journeys.

In a culture that worships youthful beauty, this book reminds us all that our esoteric standards are stifled, immature and limited. The wonderful Bolen leads women (and real men) on a revealing and empowering exploration of the many rich, strong, wise, diverse and beautiful identities that both shape and define the gifts of "older" women.

I have shared this book with my daughters, my friends and as a springboard to discussion in nursing homes with goddesses over 90 years rich.

There are truths here that we must affirm (as they affirm us!) in order to claim our true places in this world!

Sometimes we carry the burden of getting older as a curse. This book will help women over 50 rediscover the greatness within.

I have read earlier works by Shinoda Bolen and found them both informative and easy to absorb. This book is the same, expanding on her earlier work (Goddesses in Everywoman). I recommend this to anyone interested in Goddess work, Jungian archetypes, history / mythology, basic psychology or anyone just looking for an interesting and new-ish approach to women.

Thomas Watson is one of the most enjoyable authors of the Puritan era; he combines rich insight with captivating illustrations. One would expect, then, to breeze through 252 pages of such wonderfully written material. This would be the case if Watson's words were not as soul-searching and penetrating. Watson is straightforward and calls sin exactly what it is. He does not lower the bar of holiness but paints a picture of the godly man as he ought to be.

After slowly reading and thinking deeply upon Watson's 24 characteristics one is left feeling the weight of sin and longing for grace. I found myself wishing to hear from a dear Richard Sibbes, to remind me that my feeble spark of grace is enough. To my surprise a few chapters after exhorting us towards godliness Watson comforts us with the gracious words of Matthew 12:20. He, too, reminds us that Christ will not "crush grace in its infancy".

And finally, Watson closes by reminding us of our union with Christ. It is from this union that the believer is made godly and considered godly. Watson comes full circle in this book. He begins by pointing us to the Cross. Then he paints a picture of what we ought to be in response. And finally, he points us back to the Cross for repentance and cleansing because we are often not what we ought to be.

What I Liked:

The word pictures that Watson employs are mind awakening. He paints pictures to help the believer think thoughts he never thought before. This makes such a soul-piercing work actually enjoyable. One can scarcely open the book without finding a metaphor on the page you opened to. This causes Watson to be remembered and very quotable.

Had the book ended without the final two chapters it would not have been as effective. However, had the book only contained the last two chapters it would not have been as effective. Watson does a wonderful job of raising the bar of holiness where it ought to be, then pointing to the grace of Christ when we fail. In reading through this book I felt the weight of sin and yet at the same time the depths of grace.

What I Disliked:

Watson does do a good job of providing grace and pointing to Christ. However, because this book is so soul-piercing one finds it difficult to get to page 222 without receiving comfort. It is occasionally hinted at throughout the book. As it stands, though, this book could be applied quite dangerously. If the believer goes about trying to attain the characteristics Watson mentions, and paint the picture of godliness himself, then he will find much despair. Therefore, it would have been more effective in my opinion for Watson to have paused occasionally and pointed us back to the Savior and to the powerful working of the Holy Spirit.

Because of this I would suggest three different ways to read it for maximum benefit. First, this would be a wonderful book to read alongside a book like The Bruised Reed, or a Cross-Centered CJ Mahaney type of book. Secondly, one could read a few sections of chapter four...stop...let the weight of sink in...and then go to chapter 11 or 12. Thirdly, sit down and read the entire thing in one or two sittings.

Should You Buy It?

I would certainly suggest this. Watson's beautiful way of putting things is enough to recommend this book for your collection. If Watson's words are heeded and they are used to point to the Cross and inspire in holiness then certainly this book is well worth whatever time you put into it.

One of the best books that I have read. Every believer should read this book at least one time if not more. Very convicting and encouraging. Definitely a classic. You won't be sorry you read it.
Rich

This is a must read for every Christian. With a high view of the LORD and His Word, Thomas Watson delivers a practical, Christ centered, treatise on what a Godly man will be characterized by. In his usual lucid profundity, Watson articulates and illustrates biblical truth without muddying the water. This book is truly edifying and is without a doubt one of my favorite books of all time. If you are used to a diet of contemporary Christian fluff, then proceed with caution. You will not find any self-centered psychobabble here. What you will find however, is rich and profound teaching that is Christ honoring and God centered.

With his ability to combine sound doctrine, practical wisdom, and effective illustrations, Watson draws with "a Scripture pencil" a portrait of the godly Christian. He communicates in a pleasant and easy to understand style, making him rightly regarded as the most readable of the Puritans. This book is beneficial to both men and women, as "man" in the title may be used in a generic sense. Watson shows the characteristic marks of a godly person, explains what each trait means and why it is crucial, and exhorts us on how to apply each in different areas of our life. He also prescribes some helps and counsel to persevere in godliness.

This little book is an absolute treasure and should be read by every Christian. It has deep insight and rich theological truths that will penetrate your heart and challenge the way you think about God and spirituality. The Puritans should not be forgotten because they understood man's sinfulness (depravity) and were God centered and put a strong emphasis on grace.

This is the best book I have ever read, bar none. I'm sixty years old. Been in ministry 30 years. Mason has turned my nice neat evangelical theology on its ear. I never read a book more than once. Ever. I am starting my fourth reading this month. I would give a month's salary to sit down over coffee with this author.

An excellent book to have by your bedside and use as a devotional during time of suffering.. What an encouragement ! Very insightful and thought provoking!

This book is a wonderful commentary on Job, deep and thought-provoking. I have bought copies for friends who were having problems.

My uncle in recommending this book said, 'If I were stranded on a deserted island and could have with me only two books--one, of course, would be the Bible, the other would be The Gospel According to Job.' My personal choices, though, would be (one) the Bible and (two) a comprehensive survival guide with detailed instructions on how to build a boat. However, if I were given a third choice, I would undoubtedly have with me The Gospel According to Job. It's the most profound commentary on Christian living I've ever read. I've handed out dozens to friends and family.

All the chapters are two pages in length and are perfect in size for devotional reading. The Gospel According to Job, in truth, is so rich and deep with insight, I find it best to chew on small pieces of its wisdom at a time. It is--in its own right--a practical and spiritual guide for life, and has built me up in ways no other book has. Please read it.

Mike Mason's "The Gospel According to Job" creates a biblical sufferology: a theology of suffering. Point by point, or, more accurately, verse by verse, Mason guides readers, like an ancient spiritual director, into the depth of human suffering. His co-guide is the greatest human sufferer of all time--Job.

As Mason explains in his preface, "The Gospel According to Job" is not a commentary but a devotional. Those looking for an exegetical commentary will, therefore, be disappointed. However, those looking for an accurate, unique, refreshing, practical explanation of the life of Job, will be encouraged.

Mason is a skilled wordsmith which makes this rather lenghty book an easy read, as does the two-to-three page "chapters." Many of the insights, in particular that Job is about Job, more than it is about God, are startling. In fact, readers of this review are likely saying, "What!? How can Job NOT be about God?" Oh, it is. But it is MORE about God's view of Job than it is about Job's view of God. If I say more, I'll ruin the suspense . . .

Not every "chapter" provides the same depth of insight, with some more provocative and perhaps more exegetically grounded than others. But, isn't that the way with a "devotional book." More than enough chapters are "dead on" to make "The Gospel According to Job" a powerful addition to your arsenal in the battle for your soul when Satan assaults.

Reviewer: Bob Kellemen, Ph.D., is the author of "Beyond the Suffering: Embracing the Legacy of African American Soul Care and Spiritual Direction," "Soul Physicians," "Spiritual Friends," and the forthcoming "Sacred Friendships: Listening to the Voices of Women Soul Care-Givers and Spiritual Directors."

While reading this book, I couldn't help thinking of all my friends who would benefit from reading this book. It's a great read.

Although nicely written by a medical intuitive, I was disappointed in this slight offering. The information was basic to the point of being simplistic. The boxed thoughts which were to be used a meditations were neither memorable nor effective. In less skilled hands, this book would be trivial and annoying.

This is not to say, it has no value. It is a quick and easy read and the author's experiences are fascinating. Some will find comfort but none will find depth. In many ways, this is like having the whipped cream but not the cake. It is frothy and light. I was expecting a more substance, detailed program for accessing guidance. This is not unlike those inspirational angel blurbs/chicken soup for the soul stories featured in womens magazines--marginally moving, completely forgettable.

This is an excellent book on how to reconnect with God (or whatever you choose as your higher source). I highly recommend getting this book, it will change your life forever for the better!.

It's about time I wrote a review for this book because I have had it for years, read it repeatedly, toss it in my briefcase or luggage on business, or keep a few on hand to pass out......

I have been familiar with the work of spiritual responsibility as taught by Christel Nani and Dr. Rebecca Grace for years now...and have found my personal and professional lives changed remarkably for the better for it. The basics for this book give a very simple, hands on, easy approach to seeing how we each tend to get in our own way while seeking what we want. This book strips away the fanfare and mystic fluff for basic truths about finding joy, being your best self, living your best life, and literally ridding oneself of one's own "stinking thinking." So many times we are our own worst enemy in achieving our own happiness. This book is probably the only book I pick up to re-read fairly often. I always seem to find something new - a new approach, a new idea, a new way to solve a problem each time I read it.

Now, if you are looking for an in-depth analysis of the belief system we carry with us, and how it can be detrimental to one's physical and emotional health - with a very detailed analysis of these issues and how to change, as well as countless specific informal case studies (author's anecdotes) -"Guidance 24/7" is not the book for you. "Guidance 24/7" is the fast, swift, quick, high-intensity dose of a shot of joy. If you want the more detailed analysis of tribal beliefs, lots of great illustrative case studies, and tons of specific resolutions as to how to proceed - you want Christel's later book - "Sacred Choices."

Basically I differentiate the two books this way....."Sacred Choices" is the long slow luscious sip of a frothy fabulous latte, while "Guidance 24/7" is the quick high-intensity shot of espresso..... either way, enjoy! P.S. I just ordered the "Confidence Code CD" - another must own item..... play it before bed and fall asleep to it.... the results are fabulous!

I loved Guidance 24/7 because it's so comforting! We all need help. Christel makes it so easy and simple to ask for the guidance you need! You will realize that you are never alone, and divine help is yours for the asking. Christel shows you how to ask for help, how to get over feeling unworthy, how to listen for the answers, and how to be grateful.

This book is a very easy read but you'll want to read it over and over to make sure you get it all. Christel's examples and stories are fascinating! After reading this book, I can see angels in my life, and am much more prayerful for my own needs and others' needs, but also in gratitude for all I've been given. I love this book for its simplicity and integrity.

easy reading by an obviously intelligent author.Much more realistic than other authors I have read on the subject of vodou.He uses caution and humor.The best book I have read on the subject.

I echo many of the sentiments expressed in previous reviews of this work. To add to those, my first reading left me with the impression that Filan not only has deep love and appreciation for her spirituality, but of the culture of Haiti as well. Practices and the lwa themselves are related back to Haitian culture, giving the reader a wider context of appreciation for this spiritual path, and yet, not alienating them from it.

I also found it refreshing that Filan went beyond the "how-to" format that so many texts seem to fall into these days; "I"-centric compilations that center around ways the reader can craft their way to more money, fame, relationships etc. Filan does offer suggestions for working with the lwa for help with such matters, but emphasizes throughout the importance of establishing a friendly relationship with the lwa, and thus with the community, within and beyond the spirituality, globally and locally. This is done in such a way that you don't feel as if you're being preached to.

The book is very user-friendly. Filan's conversational writing style will take you through the vast amount of information presented with ease--and I think the organization of the book helps as well. I found that I was able to open to any particular section for quick reference. For example, one section that I reread, was on "Sacrifice" in the "Practices" section. I raise my own chickens, and am familiar with the slaughter and prep that goes into bringing an animal for the dinner table, and subsequently, ethical use and treatment of animals for food has been a subject that I've been exploring (further recommended reading: River Cottage Meat Book). I thought that Filan's treatment of this aspect of Vodou was both respectful and informative; I don't think that most folks are aware that animals sacrificed to the lwa are also consumed as food. Put into the context of culture, and thoroughly explored, the basic practices of Vodou are revealed as the building of familial and communal spiritual bonds. Filan dispels many myths.

A great read for beginners from a long-time practitioner, this book has heart and substance. I highly recommend this!

As a student, albeit a crone one with many years of spiritual reading behind me, I am enjoying this book and the conversational style of the author. The relationship between Lwa and practitioner is easily explained which is something that caused confusion prior to reading the book. A thumbs up! The book is inclusive of all who have an interest in vodou without being too elementary.

A well written factual book which gives an accurate account of this belief system, without any of the 'shock horror probe' stories often associated with Vodouism.
Well worth every penny.

Out of the many books that i have read (so far) on the subject of Vodou, this one was the most well rounded. There is no mystical aspect to the lwa when the author is speaking of them, they just are. This gives the reader a greater sense of authenticity, not to the book per say, but to the subject itself. Nor am i a fan of spiritual "excerises," but this book is an exception. i found the examples very usable from a theo-practical point of view. Lastly, i found the info in general to be cohesive and well thought out. Kudos and thank you to the author. Ashe.
d

Mr. Niemeyer is a bonafied writer of the first order! His take on God's plan for all of us is stirring but I find that his descriptive passages tend to steal the thunder. His next undertaking should be "fiction".

I don't know what book Mr. Nyman was reading, or what kind of mood he was in when reading it, but he seems, for a Christian, eager to cast the first stone. Mr. Niemeyer's short book IS emotional, IS patriotic, and IS timely. 9/11 changed the lens through which we perceive the world. This book was published just 6 months after 9/11 and its message still rings true. No literary work is interesting without an emotional connection. Mr. Niemeyer's discussion of his father shapes his words, and gives color to his message of love and hope.

With regard to patriotism and Christianity, Mr. Niemeyer rightly recognizes that this nation was founded on Christian principles. Mr. Nyman posits that to found a nation on Christian principles is to found a fascist state. At this point in reading Nyman's review I began to question his sanity, or at least his motives. Regardless, I believe the U.S. is far from a fascist state. I dare say 99% of Americans and even most of the world would agree.

The bottom line is that this is a fabulous short read for "baby Christians" and long time Christians. This isn't C.S. Lewis, of course, but the scripture is sound, the examples timely and interesting, and the author apparently sincere. Kudos to Niemeyer for wearing his heart on his sleeve for Christ. Shame on Mr. Nyman for seemingly having a vendetta that is very un-Christlike vs. this wonderful and hopeful book.

Todays society often emphasizes excess, materialism, anger and hatred. It can all too often lead us down a path away from God's word and leave a void in our lives. In 'Harvesting Spiritual Fruit', Jon Niemeyer provides the fruit to fill that void. This book captures the spirit of true happiness. A great 'read' for anyone seeking to focus on true happiness and what truly is important in one's life!

I was so pleased to read a book that emphasizes practical, holy living as God intended us to live. So many Christian books written today put great emphasis upon the gifts of the Spirit, but very little upon the fruits of the Spirit. Jonathan Niemeyer has done a superb job in correlating and integrating the truths of God's Word into practical settings for family living, as well as for other relationships. The book is concise and easily read. The message is one we all need to hear and to heed. Everyone needs to read this book. The message it contains has long been overdue for the times in which we live in today.

Harvesting Spiritual Fruit is a direct path to God's true Love and Happiness. Mr. Niemeyer uses the fruit of the spirit from Galatians 5:22,23 to guide us to deeper relationships with God, family, and freinds. This book is an easy read that helps us to emmulate Christ's love(for us) in all of are interactions with each other. The end result can only be God's true Love, Joy and Peace in our lives.
This is a truley wonderful book that I will use as continuous reinforcement for how I should live my life. I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in obtaining true happiness in their life.

Dr. Prieskorn offers up a beautiful story about his ongoing conversations with God. The story is told in simple, every-day language with examples that everyone can relate to. A great book for the holiday season!

Helaing Journey was given to me at a time when I needed some guidance and the book did just what I wanted. It helped me to see the simplicity of moving through any tough time in life. John presents in an easy to follow format and he keeps everything simple and easy to understand. John took me by the hand and led me into a beautiful healing journey. He did this gently and with a great caring spirit. I continually use the book as a reference whenever I feel "stuck". I am sure the book will continue to renew my spirit and teach me for many years to come. Thank you for a most beautiful book.

The Healing Journey is wonderful, uplifting and I highly recommend it. The author offers solutions to living life succesfully with the day-to-day realities of our life by introducing simple and powerful tools for transformation, leading you to stop judging (mainly yourself) and to start practicing another way of life. John Prieskorns personal stories and lesson will heal your heart. This inspiring book is a must read.

That wondrous something that dwells within us all, is revealed through John's book. He has captured the essence of discovery of "self" and the path it takes to achieve enlightnment. John has taken his experience and put into a format that frees the reader to obtain a workable principle for mastery. This is a book not only for my students, but for students of life. Thank you John for being a leader among lifes confusion.

If anything in your life could use a little healing, Healing Journey will prove invaluable to you. This is not the usual self-help book that tells you what is wrong with you and how to fix it. No, this is a book written in partnership with the reader, gently opening new doors of understanding and offering many opportunities for the reader to develop new tools to use in healing anything that needs healing, including relationships, business affairs as well as physical and mental health.

The message is clearly and interestingly presented. At the end of each chapter, the reader is offered several provocative questions to reflect upon which can be life transforming. This is a reader-friendly book filled with insights that can change your life.

My mom used this book along with her women's Bible study. Everyone really enjoyed it! The book provided plenty of opportunities for interesting discussion and offered wonderful insight into who David was and who God is. Beth Moore is a talented writer and this book is no exception!

Reading this book is like eating Thanksgiving dinner. You read until you are stuffed with so much information. Then you have to stop and ingest it. You have to pray over what you have learned; soaking in all of the extra insight and knowledge. Then after the feeling of fullness begins to subside, you go back for more...and more...and more! This book is not only a glimpse at the life of David. It also explores other people who were important in making David the man that God intended for him to be. While exploring David's life, you will begin to explore your own life...your own ministry. None of us are worthy or perfect by any means. This book explores David's weaknesses in a way that you can compare your own short comings and know that you can be a person after Gods own heart.

Beth's book is a wonderfully written journey through the life of a man who sought God's own heart. She fluctuates between humorous observations on the actions of the Biblical characters I thought I knew so well, and touching parallels to the life of the ultimate "Son of Man". This book held me captivated from the introduction to the final period. I look forward to more books like this from Beth.

A few years ago the women's Bible study in my church went through the video version of "A Heart Like His." I heard glowing reviews from one lady after another, speaking of how pertinent and powerful the material was. Unfortunately, it was then geared exclusively to women, so I never watched the videos myself.

With the memory of those glowing reviews still fresh in mind, I decided to purchase the book version and see for myself if Beth Moore's teaching lived up to its reputation. I was certainly NOT disappointed. This book is an outstanding treatment of the triumphs and the tragedies of Israel's most famous king.

Moore takes practically every significant incident from David's life and applies the spiritual principles to life today. Through her exposition here, the reader gets to know David much better, and learns why he has been called "a man after God's own heart." The author's treatment is chronological, starting from the events surrounding David's emergence on the Biblical scene as a young boy to the transfer of his throne as an old man to his son Solomon.

I recommend this book very highly to anyone wanting to gain a better understanding of the life of King David. The book is very easy reading, yet is profound in its insights. Men and women, clergy and laity alike will benefit from Moore's painstakingly thorough work.

Beth Moore chose to delve into the life and times of David, a mere shepherd boy who was chosen to be the leader of Israel. In A HEART LIKE HIS, Moore poses the practical questions as to how a person can be forgiven and restored after sin? How a person can continue to be faithful when nothing seems to be going his way? How can a person find God when feeling lonely? How important is God's influence on our family?

Moore begins the journey into David's life in the book of 1 Samuel. She uses several Biblical references and provides background into the trials and tribulations David faced. With God's assistance, David rose from basic obscurity into a position of amazing power. When he operates outside of God's will, he makes an unwise decision that will prove to unravel his long reign and have dire consequences on his family. In his earlier times, Moore depicts David who continually seeking God's guidance and is quick to offer praise to God. Yet, David was a man with a weakness for beautiful women. Although he was married, David enjoyed the attention his power garnered him from the fairer sex. Moore enhances the reader's understanding of how David's adulterous conduct with Bathsheba and the murder of her husband cast David out of God's will. On this subject, Moore states that David had a "far away heart." It was not until David was "bankrupt in spirit" over the death of his illegitimate son that he repented for his sins. Moore reminds the reader that although God will forgive us of our sins, He will pass judgement on us.

In A HEART LIKE HIS, Moore does a very good job of setting the scene. She takes us back to the beginning even before David had knowledge of the greater things in store for him. The book's lessons are based mainly on 1 Samuel and 2 Samuel. A HEART LIKE HIS would be a great tool for individual or group study. Each chapter is laden with cross-references to other Biblical references. At times, it was confusing because the complete Biblical citation was not used in the text. However, this was not distracting enough to detract from the great presentation of King David's reign.

Reviewed by Nedine
of The RAWSISTAZ™ Reviewers